Question

A molecule in which sp² hybrid orbitals are used by the central atom in forming covalent bonds is

(a) He₂

(b) SO₂

(c) PCl₅

(d) N₂

Answer 1

Correct option is (b) SO₂

Total valence electrons around S atom

= 6 + 4

= 10

5 electron pairs in total

2 electron pairs are involved in each S-O bond

∴ There is one lone pair

Steric number for S = 3

⇒ sp² hybridized